Now is the Time

"It never ceases to astonish (and trouble) me that Advent—the season dedicated to preparing to receive the Prince of Peace—is so stressful.

I start every Advent with the intention to pray more, to be more reflective, to be more dutiful in preparing a place in my heart for Christ’s birth. But despite best intentions…papers must be graded, decorations must be hung, parties must be attended, and shopping must be done. By the mid-point of the season, I come to my senses and think, “Have I wasted another Advent?”

Year after year, though, I find myself consoled by Gabriel’s words to Mary: “Do not be afraid” (Luke 1:30). Advent is not an all-or-nothing affair. Rather, it is a gradual process of decluttering our hearts to make room for the One who wants to become a part of our lives. Instead of fretting that we have wasted the season, let us have faith that the Lord will never refuse to enter a heart or home that is open to him.

Now is the time to risk opening door and saying, “Lord, you are welcome here.” For the Good News of this season is that the moment you open yourself to receiving Emmanuel—“God with Us”—he is born anew within you."

- Ryan G. Duns, S.J.,Ph.D.Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Theology, Marquette University.